Video Summary
The MG is a strong contender for the top spot in private electric car sales. The MG S5’s name is close to Audi S5, but the company is avoiding litigation with a gap in the name.Entry-level versions of the MG are priced around 28,500 pounds, while the long-range top trim costs about 33,500 pounds. These prices are on par with entry-level Skodas and Hyundais.
The MG S5 EV features a prominent badge on the hood. The S5’s design borrows from the MG Cyberster with a front grill resembling that model, and from MG4 models.
The test vehicle features 18-inch alloy wheels, while entry SE models have 17-inch alloys. Electric SUVs can suffer from a lack of interior space due to the floor-mounted battery. The S5 EV battery measures 110 mm tall.
This low battery height provides more rear legroom than expected. This car is rear-wheel drive, which may mean a sportier feel but a decrease in boot space. There is no front trunk.
The tailgate button is oddly located, and is a source of inconvenience. The top model features an electric tailgate. There is good room in the boot which includes an adjustable floor. In addition, the rear seat folds in a 60/40 configuration.
For technology, the time to connect a phone is 29 seconds, so connectivity could be faster. However, a button on the dash can be configured to turn off all the nanny-ing.
The build quality in the Trophy version reviewed is generally improved. Front seats are comfortable and adjustable and in the Trophy version can be adjusted electrically.
Real-world driving mileage average is 3.6 miles per kilowatt hour. This equates to around 230 miles of real-world range and a claimed range of 298.
Acceleration of zero to sixty-two is done in 6.3 seconds. In testing, the zero to sixty was found to be at 6 seconds dead, a little bit faster than claimed.
The car has a better driving body control around corners, than one would expect.
The car undercuts its rivals in price which does mean one gets a great value.
